Vanlife Mistakes I 10 things we'd CHANGE about our campervan

As much as we love Vanessa, there are still a few things we would change in our van or that we would do differently in a new campervan. After last weeks video featuring 10 things we love about our van, here are 10 THINGS WE WOULD CHANGE, after spending nearly 6 months full-time on the road.
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WHO WE ARE? WHAT’S WITH OUR ACCENT?
We're Dom & Marie, a French Canadian couple who love Nutella and live in a van. Marie is the brain (Ph.D student) and Dom's the dreamer (Creative director).
In our newly converted Promaster 136'' named Vanessa, we plan to visit every single corner of North America. Our goal is to inspire others to start #vanlife and to help build their very own home on wheels.

[@FLUFFALUMP_FPV]

The two of you are shoe-per cute together, the abundance of personality practically pours from the screen.

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhh that message is shoe-per sweet! Thanks!

[@MADMAXFILM]

perfectly said

[@NigelMcKinley]

You could add a low box in between the front seats that would store shoes. The lid could act as a tray to store items as you are travelling. Just check that it is low enough not to interfere with the turning of the front seats ;) For the rear doors you can get some door organizers with storage pockets, made out of fabric, to optimize your storage!

[@steveylupo9695]

I was thinking about that but with wheels so you could roll it out of the way to walk or swivel.

[@roxane444]

I have that in my van when I do long roadtrip and it is convenient ! It was low too so I could easily pass over it and when I wanted to swivel the seats I just grab it and put it somewhere meanwhile. ✌️So great Idea 😉

[@roxane444]

I have that in my van when I do long roadtrip and it is convenient ! It was low too so I could easily pass over it and when I wanted to swivel the seats I just grab it and put it somewhere meanwhile. ✌️So great Idea 😉

[@vanlifesagas]

That's exactly what will do! Brilliant idea! Now on the design team, Nigel.

[@vanlifesagas]

That's so cool. We're on it.

[@jennifermcbride1183]

What about installing a Lagun swivel table on the side of the cooking area, behind the drivers seat??. That way, you don’t have to change the cooking area at all, you would just turn your passenger seat around and pull out the swivel table to use with the passenger seat for your workstation.

[@jennifermcbride1183]

www.lagunusa.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwsuP5BRCoARIsAPtX_wEFsvOxaJxxLmSNMT9vS2XJwWBq0eDYyQ6pe3f6eeZWzQgIePjn2t4aAr1KEALw_wcB

[@VANquishedAdventures]

That was my initial thought as well

[@lilymae859]

Yes, was about to suggest that too! It’s something you could do now ❤️

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh that's really cool. We'd have the space behind the fridge to put it there as well. Smart!

[@jennifermcbride1183]

Vanlife Sagas yay!

[@michellestratford9753]

I live in my Winnebago which is built on the Mercedes Sprinter chassis as well, so I have that same gap between the front seats. I've put a collapsible woven basket there to catch the wrappers, etc as the basket starts out flat so doesn't so doesn't take up space, and then expands as required. I'm really enjoying your channel and I LOVE that you're Canadian so I don't have to switch over all your links from US Amazon to Canadian, lol. Happy New Year!🥰

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhh that's such a good idea. A woven basket. Brilliant! Thanks for the recommendation. Just added another item to my list! Stay safe Michelle! Looking forward to seeing you on the road 🥰

[@Cydoffgrid]

Two things came to mind while watching: 1. Perhaps there could be shoe pockets strapped to the back of driver and passenger seats? 2. For the driver's seat work station... you might consider having a flip up table for more space? Y'all are so playful, its nice to watch :)

[@vanlifesagas]

1. Just scared it'll be in the way when swiveling the seat. 2. That's what we'll do. 3. Thanks for the tips. 4. Thanks again. 5. Okay, enough.

[@cindygriewe7001]

I was also going to suggest the flip-up for work station. Then you just have to put in the swivel for the seat and it can be more counter space when you need it.

[@melindamyers9869]

I liked this shoe rack solution 9 months after you posted it.

[@floridaislandgirl1039]

I am a year late, but in our last RV we put a closet fabric shoe storage behind the driver's seat. You could put shoes in it from three doors. It worked great and just enough room.

[@vanlifesagas]

That's a great idea! Thanks for sharing with us!

[@RavenStew]

"Don't go cheap on what you sleep on!" Yessir!

[@vanlifesagas]

Hell no. We learned that the hard way!

[@marieclaudebedard6728]

Yep! We own a 1984 Westfalia and the thin matresses are the only thing I don't like about it ( and the fact that I can't ne bothered to learn how to drive with the manual transmission so my paterner is the only one driving but that's another story)😉

[@kismooreheart]

It’s just an idea but on the subject of shoes: maybe have a small rack inside with the mist used shoes fit run around like those slippers you wear. But then store the rest like Sandals and long distance hikers (the stuff your kinda preparing to go do) store them outside in a closed weatherproof cabinet. Ooooo ..no you won’t smell dirty feet. Make it a closed cabinet

[@vanlifesagas]

That's exactly what we do for boots: we have this storage box and it's been sooooooo amazing!

[@Infrawgnito]

Be honest, Marie ... you only want a wee freezer in a new fridge to store your chocolate mint ice cream. LOL

[@vanlifesagas]

hahahahahahah I laughed HARD! You know me too well! 😂

[@sprinterviews]

Hello - if you do try a side rack for your paddleboards keep in mind that it will seriously limit your visibility in the side mirror, purchasing a tow mirror will help a lot. I fabricated a side rack (the manufactured ones are $$$) on my Sprinter for my boards and it has been great, have driven thousands of kilometers and it is still solid. 🤙🏼

[@vanlifesagas]

Dude! Can you figure out a way to send a photo somehow? Looking forward to discussing this with you.

[@sprinterviews]

@@vanlifesagas sent an email to [e-mail]

[@kpehr1]

Oh Dang!!! I was seriously hoping there would be more posts about this!! Can you DM me your pics as well? IDK why you have FB and Insta pages with zero content on them as I know people would love to see this idea. 😊

[@yurii.lompart]

I think you can add table with laguna mount and use it: 1) from passenger seat for late night work 2) like additional table between seats while driving 3) like additional space for cooking And I think you don't need a swivel seat on driver side, because you would need to change a lot, only if you want to seat together.

[@vanlifesagas]

That is brilliant. Totally agree!

[@richardmorrey4555]

So we are building our first van and I have been searching KZbin like most people and have come across a lot of couples. You 2 are by far my new favorites!

[@vanlifesagas]

Awe yay! Thanks for being here Richard! It means the world to us. If we can help, please don't hesitate!

[@laurencurrie7810]

I LOVE our front loading fridge. It's super deep and holds a ton of food. Worth it.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yeah. Since we've been talking to others about that front load, many people recommend not switching. Decisions, decisions.

[@catw6274]

Which one did you get? I have been searching for a front loading 12v fridge and I've had trouble finding any.

[@alyssaherring5027]

i’m using bungee cords attached to the lower cabinet for my shoes! just plop them in between the cord and the flat side and they stay pretty well

[@vanlifesagas]

That’s probably the most easy solution!

[@michaeljohn7398]

A hanging shoe rack, like a Mothers Apron with pockets would fit nicely on the left hand side when you come in the door. By hanging the apron by cup hooks you can easily remove it for cleaning, put the muddy shoes in the bottom pockets. The pockets are half shoe depth and only protrude 3" max into your doorway space. 😁 Cheers from Michael. Australia.

[@vanlifesagas]

that an awesome idea we'll definitely think about that ! Cheers from vanlife gatineau🧡

[@ianbarr4716]

Like many of the other comments say, you guys are two peas in a pod. I'm smiling just watching how well-matched you are. Love it!

[@vanlifesagas]

:)

[@adaventures7080]

I have an idea for your shoe problem and a table in between the two chairs at the front! Get a wood box to put your shoes in then get a pole and screw it in the middle of the box and put a table on top! 😊

[@JeffKasten]

I was going to suggest putting some type of removable/swivel table in between the front seats, which could be used as a workstation. Your idea is even better because it adds another dimension for use when driving. Excellent idea!

[@vanlifesagas]

That's a BRILLIANT idea. Might be doing just that!

[@adaventures7080]

Glad I could help!!😊😊

[@AnaLourenco89]

Hi just had a net in between the seats... like a hammock u can remove it if not in use and u can use it to store your belongings. Plus, behind the driver seat you can u can put a removable wall mounted letter rack to place ur shoes

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly what we're aiming for!

[@TheViewfromBethlehem]

Over the years I have found so many uses for my simple, folding TV table. Folded flat, it would fit behind the driver's seat. Opened, it could be a laptop table or, when driving, to hold your Mélange Fiesta et un Pepsi.

[@Lexykins2691]

I was thinking the same thing! Simple tv tray!

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh damn, that's good!

[@wizzdumb_610]

I'm sure someone said it already but if not you should add a little thing to the back of your driver's / passenger seat for your shoes. Like I think they sell these things that would drape over the seat pretty perfectly & hang down just fine. Not too bulky. Just something that has little pockets you can neatly put your shoes in to keep them up off the floor.

[@vanlifesagas]

Can't really. There's a refrigerator vent behind the driver's seat (kitchen unit) and the passenger seat won't be able to swivel anymore. It would've been soooo perfect!

[@benjiL04]

How have I not found this channel? This is literally the best vanlife channel on KZbin how do you not have millions of subs

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhh thanks Benjamin! That's a big motivation boost right here. Just started this Channel 14 weeks ago now. Glad you like it! See you next Sunday :)

[@cretnotonic]

How about a wheeled basket/cart for the centre console up front? Put locking wheels on it for driving and wheel it out of the way when parked. Plus, a fold down drop table by the stove would work if the driver seat could swivel.

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly what we'll be aiming for! Once we get back home and have access to a saw and some wood, we're building a box to put between the seats for sure! Thanks for the tip! :)

[@cfrost87]

My suggestion for the front work station-- add a lagune table mount next to the passenger swivel seat. As far as the lithium batteries, you can actually use more of their capacity vs agm.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yeah, I think the next batteries will definitely be lithium. Can't wait to get those!

[@spleerfloof]

I was thinking the same thing, add a Lagun table mount, but mount it behind the driver seat, on the side of the kitchen cabinet. Then you can sit in the passenger seat and use the table for a workstation. It also might swivel right in between the seats when you are driving as well.

[@dianainthezone]

Shoes... How about a rack on the back of the seat? Or on the inside of the door itself if there's room... Between the seats... One of those Tables that would fold down and swing back into the space behind the driver's seat. A Lagun table or swing arm table? The electronics cupboard... What about mounting some of the units onto the lid? It would save space and make it easier to see read outs.

[@vanlifesagas]

Totally in for that table behind the seats! As for rack on back of the seats, they wouldn't swivel anymore, so that wouldn't be the best! About to get a Lagun table! woot woot!

[@Namdor2012]

Two wicker baskets, one upside down ( cut back out) with a material flap and one right side up..Put it in-between the seats you can put shoes under it and your goodies in the top basket while driving...All you need is a kind of holding clip or two on it to hold in place while driving, move it back and forth when parked..

[@wakantanka802]

Best approach, and Maybe a light ply pigeon holed insert in the bottom basket to seperate the pairs of shoes to optimize..Top basket could be shallow, and glue two cup holders in the front of it to hold drinks properly while driving...👍

[@Namdor2012]

@@wakantanka802 Yep, and just join baskets solidly together with strong velcro ( same colour as basket ) or clips, incase of thinking of a using top basket someplace else when parked if it's too high to swivel seats......All light and can match the baskets to suit the van...

[@wakantanka802]

@@Namdor2012 Haa we got it down now..Velcro is good as you could shift the top basket forwards up against the dash and put the plant in it and seat would be clear to swivel, noticed by looking they have cup holders...

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhh that ply pigeon is a good idea.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yup! I think that's the winner! Thanks for the advice :)

[@spencoutcast]

For the shoe problem you could get a little shoe holder that’s just fabric with pockets and hang it off of the passenger seat!

[@vanlifesagas]

We might be going for that for the next van!

[@ashleighbaker2193]

Hey! Why don't you get one of those hanging shoe storage things that normally go on the back of doors? You could hang it on the back of the seat :)

[@nikiharris2848]

Exactly what I was gonna say! Great minds.... 😉

[@sassykat2000]

That's exactly what I was thinking! And hang it on the back of the passenger seat right?

[@raphaelrosenhagen5624]

... But what happens with it when you want to swivel your seat around? I imaging you need to dismount it to swivel...

[@ashleighbaker2193]

@@raphaelrosenhagen5624 then hang it on the hook about the door? It's that big of a deal

[@ashleighbaker2193]

@@sassykat2000 exactly!

[@claudi2205]

i'd add kind of a lagun table to the front of your fridge drawer as you just need to mount the plate and rest can be stored behind the drivers seat when u don't need it. it can be used as desk, counterspace between the seats when driving and also extra workspace when you cook.

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh man. That's brilliant! We need you on the design team Claudia!

[@claudi2205]

@@vanlifesagas would love to, just let me know where and when! :D

[@jvr4465]

Loved the re-enactment of the bed cushions. 😂

[@vanlifesagas]

It was THE SAME! Telling you! As hard!

[@Angel___333]

Kush ins

[@Angel___333]

Cuh shines

[@cuns4702]

Good morning from New Zealand, For your 2nd van why not raise the floor from the back to stop behind the seats. You could slide surfboards underneath from back & make a light weight sliding draw as you enter to put your shoes onto. Plus you could add an other sliding draw by surfboards for more storage. Between the console you could create a collapsible box to hold snacks but then it also adjusts in height to use as desktop. You could add cutouts below either side for your feet to rest? One of my many crazy ideas! Love you guys. Safe travels. Claire

[@vanlifesagas]

We can't really raise the floor. Dom is 6'1 and needs the head space. But yeah, between the console, we'll definitely add a box to store things.

[@shammywadud]

Thanks for sharing guys. Here are my suggestions to make your life easy in low cost. 1) Build a shoe box between the chairs which can be used as a seat too . Keep wheelers underneath the box so it's easy to move ( the wheelers which have lock to stay in 1 place) and have a extra seat or a feet rest when you use the swivel chair. Also can keep a tray over the seat when you drive which will keep your foods/snacks organized. 2) Make an small folding extension at the kitchen counter to use it as a table for night time when you swivel the driver's seat as you have some space there . And this way you don't have to move your stove around. Lots of love ❤️❣️💗. See you next week .

[@vanlifesagas]

You, my friend are a genius. As recommended by others here as well, that's exactly what we'll be doing: a box between the 2 seats!

[@shammywadud]

@@vanlifesagas It's a pleasure. I love your videos, attitude, and vibe. Looking forward to the updates. Lots of love from Bangladesh.

[@akau1340]

I switched to a vertical fridge/ freezer, too. You sacrifice a little bit in efficiency but it's much much easier to find and get your food out. I also raised it off the floor (being of the older generation) so I don't have to bend down so far. As far as your battery box, don't make it too small because you need some air circulation in there regardless of the type of battery you have. When my lithium batteries are doing a full charge the cables can get warm. As far as your paddle boards on the side of your van, I would never do it. And that's because back in the day I had ladder racks on the side of my work van. The wind noise was atrocious and on long drives I could see it reduced my MPG. Besides that, I think it would look like crap on your beautiful van.

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhhh that is great advice. Never thought of the sound of paddleboards on the side of the van, but that makes total sense. Thank you for sharing that!

[@sylviecaron6869]

Hello! For the shoes, I saw some people creating an open space at the entrance under the floor. Those shoes stay at the entrance but are not all over the place and hidden. I though it was a great idea. For a 2nd spot to work, you could simply find a small table (table pliante) that you put on your laps. Can also be used in bed.

[@vanlifesagas]

Open space at the entrance. That sounds neat. Do you know where exactly? Hard to picture where it would fit in our van.

[@sylviecaron6869]

@@vanlifesagas I understand :-) They build a hole under the floor so when you open the side door (where there's your sink), you can see the shoes in the hole. If you want, you can add a door that opens upward or you can leave it without a door. Hard to explain in writing too. I could call you if you want... or you can call me. I'm not going to give my phone number here though. So, if you have an email, maybe we can see when we can call each other. Je parle français (québécois).

[@sylviecaron6869]

À l'entrée de ta van, à l'endroit où vous êtes assis lorsque vous filmez, juste sous le plancher, il y a peut-être une façon de faire un trou. Je ne sais pas si ce sera possible avec ta van par contre parce que les personnes que j'ai vu faire ça, ça s'est fait lors de la création du plancher. Quand on ouvre la porte, on voit ce trou où sont placé les chaussures, mais ils ne sont pas partout et ça n'enlève pas d'espace de passage non plus. J'ai pensé d'essayer de l'expliquer en français, peut-être plus simple. :-)

[@lindajohnson7838]

Space between seats closed cedar, (odor control), shoe carrier with a hard top to step on when accessing back of van. For snacks a divided hard sided cloth basket that can be hooked between seats during travel.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yoooo those are all too amazing. Linda, we might need you on the design team for our new van that we are building now.

[@lindajohnson7838]

@@vanlifesagas thanks...I think out of the box ....or in your case inside the box...there are soooo many nips and corners that are waisted space in most van builds...I would love to rebuild a van and travel but alas.....not in the cards for me....3 types of cancer....I am doing ok but must stick close to home.....my heart is full of wanderlust....so I travel via you tube with all of you. I really love what the van culture has opened up for those who can move about and experience new places and things....please share some of those places with those of us who are home bound....we live vicariously through you windshields. Stay safe out there😎

[@sleeptherapy5146]

You could add a fold down swivel table behind the driver’s seat that way you have extra counter space and you have a table for the office

[@vanlifesagas]

Yaaassss! That’s definitely going in the next van.

[@MultiScrappydo]

You can hang an over the door organizer on the back of the passenger seat for your shoes. They are washable too!

[@vanlifesagas]

We initially tried that, but then the seat didn't swivel anymore. Oups!

[@annettewornin7683]

Just love watching your antics, you are a perfect match and you just make me smile

[@vanlifesagas]

Thanks Annette! You're amazing!

[@jeremywylie2936]

Do the office area. off of the passenger side. Mount a flip-up/down table from rear door. It would give extra table/office/kitchen prep space. And when not in use it would be out of the way.

[@vanlifesagas]

We're on it :) Thanks Jeremy!

[@Scorpionturtle]

you can do removable table mount between the seats to use it when you need it and remove when you don't.

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly what we'll be doing! Thanks for the tip :)

[@RustyRoseAdventures]

Don’t move the cooktop, I would make a fold out over the swivel seat and then it could be extra space and good for working and chopping!!!! Love your guys van though 😍

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly, what we'll do! Thanks Max!

[@AdrianaLopez-nq7rb]

Love you guys! You remind me of my son Pablo and his girlfriend Taya who just bought their first van. I am looking at videos to help give them advice! Thanks for your videos. They are very helpful. You make me laugh! Wish I could meet you!!!!

[@marycapcap5646]

not sure if this was already mentioned but for the space in between the seats, maybe just have a collapsible crate/container/basket to throw ur snacks and whatnot during long trips. it would be foldable so it can be stored away, maybe under under the seat.

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly what we'll be doing in the next build. Thanks Mary! You're the best!

[@dmsarabia1]

HI, Here's a thought on the extra workspace for your late night work: Since the passenger seat swivels, how about a flip up table attached on the end of the counter where your sink is? Wouldn't that be doable in this van? I think there's an outlet or switch on that panel, but if in the way, maybe it can be lowered a couple of inches. When Marie was talking about the optimizing the back door, I also immediately thought of shoe rack net for your shoes. I'm impressed that the 2 of you can survive on only 7 gallons of fresh water. I was surprised that one of you changes was not a bigger fresh water tank with filter at sink for drinking water. Do you carry extra drinking water for you daily consumption?? Love your videos and enthusiasm. thanks

[@vanlifesagas]

For some reason, we're really good with our 7-gallon. It can last us 4-5 days. But we do refill our water bottles and drink from that most of the time.

[@Ohsage1111]

For the second workstation....if the drivers seat swivels, perhaps a folding moniter stand to sit in the drivers seat and a lap desk for the passenger seat? Shoe rack....behind the drivers seat, something custom with vertical cubbies for shoes?

[@vanlifesagas]

Yup, that table would be gold. As for shoe rack, can't really do behind the seats as there is a refrigerator vent behind the driver's seat (kitchen unit) and the passenger seat won't be able to swivel anymore. It would've been perfect!

[@TrustNotMyHeart]

Marie and I had the same look when Dom said "shoeper nice." Except I shook my head. Hahaha

[@vanlifesagas]

Hahah. That was the GREATEST PUN of all times!

[@posteroonie]

Flip out table behind the driver's seat, mounted to the kitchen cabinet? So you can work comfortably from the swiveled passenger seat and not have to move the stove. Also, there are dual-zone fridges that open at the top.

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly what'll be doing! Thanks!!

[@slothyologyaguideintoathen8087]

4:38 try a table that extends in that space you can keep it and take it out when you gonna work or some sort of extension that folds so it doesn't take up alot of room

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh totally! We are for sure doing this in NEXT the van!

[@Impala_Lily]

Hey. Love your van! I’ll be embarking on this adventure in a couple of years and have watched many, many videos on van life, builds, do’s & don’ts, and found this video of your particularly helpful as I will only have 1 opportunity to get it right 👍🏼👍🏼 I saw an awesome idea 💡 for a work space on another channel (I would love to credit them but cannot remember 🙈🙈) - a pull out counter that sits flush under your main counter. This will allow you to utilise the seat when swivelled, and have a workspace ‘on’ your lap. You could easily do this especially since you mentioned that in your next build, you would move your cooktop more over to the left (when facing it). Also a shoe storage box in the bottom of the cabinet on the left as you enter. I’m a bit OCD so this is particularly important to me too. Thank you again for your valuable tips. I’m look it forward to this lifestyle but first, as I am in South Africa, and this is not popular here, the issue is to find someone who can do a build for me (or …. I will have to partner with Google tutorials and do it myself!)

[@oldslowjim]

A top opening "frig" is cold on the bottom, and cooler on top. This is thermodynamics. If you choose a front opening "frig" you will have higher energy consumption with this choice. Decide. If you have two units, "refer" and "freezer" or try dry ice. Availability is an issue with dry ice.

[@vanlifesagas]

Ahhhh so hard to pick from. We have seriously no clue what to do.

[@h.b.4058]

How about an elevated "false" floor so you could store the paddle boards flat under it? They could then easily slide out the back doors.

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh man, oh man, if only that was possible. It would've been AMAZING! The only problem with that is the head space: Dom being 6'1, he wouldn't be able to stand in the van anymore. That idea is GOLD for short people. Good thinking.

[@h.b.4058]

@@vanlifesagas I was afraid that was the case. Oh well.

[@charlieford5523]

For your paddle boards you can get a rack which you load on the side and then use a winch to take them to the roof and they fit on the roof rack with the carrier.

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh snap. Would love that. Have you ever seen something like that? If you send a quick picture via email or Instagram, that would be gold!

[@charlieford5523]

@@vanlifesagas customboatloaders.com.au was what I had in mind there australian but Iam sure there would be a company doing some thing similair nearer to you. There are also simple side extensions from the rack makers so that you can slide the board to the side and then lower it they are on ebay.

[@Jlakers1234]

I absolutely love the energy and vibes from you guys.

[@vanlifesagas]

Thanks Andrew! Means a lot! See you every Sunday! 😁

[@keefy302]

For the vanlifers out there that are looking for mattresses or cushions for sleeping on, or long seating I’d recommend 38/200 density foam, dunlop (tire/ rubber/ sporting goods manufacturer) and Joyce have good options. in comparison 36/160 is good for back cushions for seating but I wouldn’t recommend sleeping on it.. comfort is paramount in a van and seating/sleeping is where you will spend a lot of your time so invest in your comfort.. also you can have soft mattresses and hard cushions density/ rebound ratings dictate the application not wether it is a “mattress” or a “cushion”

[@vanlifesagas]

Sorry, the cushion-mattress thing was lost in translation. We tend to separate the two based on how dense and/or useful they are for sleeping. Thanks for your advice!

[@macchiavellispielberg5300]

I just wanted to say I appreciate the puns more than she seems to. I needed the laugh from shoeper nice today.

[@vanlifesagas]

Hahah she's boring. 😂 have a shoeper wonderful week!

[@cindishaheen7397]

If you build something for munchies you can’t spin chits. Just use a cute basket to hold stuff. A catch all spot that can move around.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yup! Working on that!

[@crankyoldbutchbuildsout2013]

I ordered the mattress for my tiny house, now in my van, from Cotton Cloud Futons in Portland Oregon! Under $500 for 4” Hard foam, I need a hard mattress!

[@vanlifesagas]

Did that include the fabric to cover it up? That's way cheaper than back home!

[@Feedback4Utoday]

So ~700cdn.

[@elizaanderson6363]

for shoes, get a door hanging shoe organizer and modify it to hang on the backs of your driving chairs.

[@vanlifesagas]

Thanks Eliza! We thought of it, but then the swivel seats wouldn't swivel anymore! Any other tip?!

[@rebeccastewart8639]

I freaking love you guys. That’s all, no helpful advice.

[@vanlifesagas]

Hahahah thanks Rebecca!

[@bigrollinghome2091]

shoe rack suggestion - put a wall tv mount on the side of the kitchen sink with a shoe rack on it ... that way you can rotate the shoe rack outside if the shoes are muddy etc

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhhh that's amazing. We might actually do that for the new build. It's an amazing idea!

[@jean-lucliens4915]

9 and 10 shoe rack behind driver seat and pliable table on wall passenger seat

[@vanlifesagas]

I feel that space between the driver's seat and the cooking unit isn't big enough! Urgh!

[@jean-lucliens4915]

@@vanlifesagas you guys are like my ex-wife to many shoes lol

[@janeblonde_band]

Shoes... Use the cupboard in the sliding door area. Have door that opens to outside for walking boots and from inside to same space for indoor shoes.

[@vanlifesagas]

Good idea we'll see if it can work❤️

[@JulienCournoyer]

SWEEVLE seat at the front: but do not change de cooking stuff: just insert removable table

[@emilyhabben2799]

Even a flip-up countertop extension would add the desktop you need when the chair is turn around without compromising the counter space to the left of the cooktop. It would be useable counter space when driver is facing forward but it didn't sound as though you needed space then.

[@missjennsmith6999]

That's what I was thinking Emily 👌

[@vanlifesagas]

BRILLIANT! So smart.

[@yaronyehudai2117]

Regarding you paddle boards and your idea for a shower in the back Put a tow hitch with a luggage rack build a floor for the rack now when you open the doors and put a shower curtain you don’t need to go on the ground. In addition put your board on the back door in a diagonal way. It might stick a little bit from the top but it’s stick now as well.

[@vanlifesagas]

Aren’t you afraid the wind would drag the tip of those 10 feet paddleboards? (The piece that sticks out on top?)

[@yaronyehudai2117]

Vanlife Sagas you have the van so measure out and see if at all or how much will stick out. And you tie it up against the rear door so the wind will not drug it in addition you can put on the back of the roof a luggage rack (additional storage) that will protect the tip that stick out if at all.

[@rizatacsagon]

Hope you check snow and curt yt channel for ideas that you might want to copy or improved on.Their van was created to travel for 10 years

[@vanlifesagas]

Thanks for the advice! On it!

[@poppydsvarietychannel7221]

All my other ideas were already suggested like the box for the shoes in between the seats with a nice little staying on top for drinks chips and low enough for swivel seat to still turn but if you want to put them on the back door in a net put a car Christmas tree air freshener next to them

[@vanlifesagas]

Yup, I'm sure that would do the job! Those Christmas tree air freshener always work like magic!

[@billmccaslin4198]

They make a steering wheel desk it's on Amazon

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh damn. I need to Google that now.

[@paulmeyer6190]

Get a folding or collapsible basket for between the seats. Can store behind drivers. They are cheap and handy.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yes, Marie was looking at those earlier this week.

[@sophieevans8432]

Put a box between the seats, with a tray on top for food and a drawer underneath for shoes

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly what we'll be doing!

[@sarahwilson3040]

You mentioned wanting to optimize the space between the two front seats. I have a 2004 Honda Cr-V, and it includes center console, down folding tray between the two front seats. You'd probably need something a little more customized to fit your van, but I think a design like that would work well for you guys. You could have the tray folded up while driving and folded down for ease of movement while not driving.

[@vanlifesagas]

Oommg! What a great idea! Thanks for sharing with us!

[@keririder9456]

Maybe instead of putting the shoes right next to the entrance you could add some kind of shelving unit that slides out that also is level with the counter that would store shoes, and also give more room for counter space. I imagine like a spice rack that slides out, but for shoes 😂 For a work area maybe add some kind of flip table around the entrance to work on? I’m not sure how close the chair is to the entrance, but you could make the table fold down onto the side, the space where the sink is at 3:20 Just a few ideas love the video!! 💕

[@vanlifesagas]

That flip table around the entrance is amazing. That's exactly what we'll be doing! Thanks Keri :)

[@matias.halles]

Top-open fridges keep the cold air inside when opening. Front opening ones will let the cold out the moment you open them. This impacts their efficiency and their over all energy consumption. Hope this helps!

[@matias.halles]

FWIW there's also drawer-like fridges, so you can fit a number of them in a space instead of having one big one. Probably more expensive, but 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@vanlifesagas]

Thanks we'll look it up😁

[@vanlifesagas]

Thanks for sharing this information with us, we'll think about it😊

[@nakitahowells5501]

The mattress! How about a mattress topper under your bed sheets ontop of the cushion/mattress? They fold up relatively small and could be stored in the space left between the back doors and bed/sofa maybe?

[@vanlifesagas]

Ouhhh that sounds neat! People recommended another sort of mattress topper but then folding it and finding a spot for it is a nightmare. Do you have a link to share for that small one by chance?

[@deathbringer555666]

Hanging pocket that are used for tents for storage. With a little modification it could be put on the back of one of the seats.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yup, we might put this in the entrance!

[@cynthiaarmstrong7972]

Don’t plan on cramming electrical components together side by side in the compartment. You need room to work and for wire clearances. I bought four 100 Ah lithium batteries that fit exactly into the storage compartment that I planned on installing them. Then quickly learned that I needed almost twice the space to allow for the heavy duty 2/0 and 4/0 cabling loops that join the terminals in parallel. Good luck with your new build!

[@justm720]

The first issue, maybe you could have shoe hanging storage where you already put shoes behind the seat. For the work station, maybe a collapsible table that can be used in the existing swivel seat and can be stowed away behind the hanging shoe rack?

[@vanlifesagas]

Absolutely! That's exactly what we'll be doing! Thanks Just M!

[@justm720]

I hope all goes well ^_^ would love an update on the changes you make! Super nice job on the van btw ^_^ stay safe

[@susanstillwell6305]

For between the seats: A lightweight box that holds shoes, is moveable for turning seats and walking between, and the top holds snacks and etc.

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhhh that's a good one! Totally adding that to the van!

[@marthamanigross]

Suggestion for storage. We have a Promaster (Travato 59K from Winnebago) - a lot of people have placed a wire rack above the slider door, attaching one end to the cabinet (passenger side), to the overhead cab area (commonly called the pizza oven). The rack can then have bins that hold shoes, and usually many other things because it’s a lot of room. The rack is the type for a clothes closet and has to be modified a tiny bit on the end that goes up in the over cab area. There is a small lip/edge on the shelf as well, so the bins don’t fall out. The only thing is, with Dom being so tall, he will have to remember to duck! BTW, I love you guys. You make me smile. 😁.

[@vanlifesagas]

Ouuuh. Would you mind sending us a picture of that? Either by email on Instagram. Curious to see what it would look like in our van!

[@marthamanigross]

Vanlife Sagas sure. Just took a bunch off Facebook. Sent through email. Let me know if you got it. I’m not as good with Instagram.

[@jenniferjones6789]

In our van we have a hanging shoe organizer that we have mounted at the back of our van. It makes it super easy to just open the back door and put your shoes on or take them off and slide them into the shoe pockets. The one we have holds 12 pairs of shoes. We also use it to hold other items that we frequently use like the stakes for our Fiamma awning

[@vanlifesagas]

How is that awning? Do you use it often? Just wondering if we'd use it a lot. Can it support a bit of rain/wind, or not at all?

[@jenniferjones6789]

@@vanlifesagas The awning is one of the best purchases we made for the van. I would say that it is a definite "must have" item. We live in South Carolina where it can get quite hot so it is always nice to have a bit of shade in the summer months. We have been out during a few storms and have never had any issues. You can adjust the height of each side of the awning so if it is raining you can lower one side to get good drainage. We chose to have the option to stake the awning to the ground or to attach it to the side of the van. Both work great! I probably wouldn't put it out in a wind storm but other than that we use it every time we go out on an adventure.

[@swinderlich]

Keep your fridge. Get a separate top opening freezer that can fit between the front seats to double up as a mini snack table. Add hanging shoe storage pockets behind your seats in the cabin.

[@vanlifesagas]

Wow thank for sharing that with us Susan 🧡

[@jenniferglowacki7201]

For the office hip front, I suggest a short slide out desk top. Otherwise you’re bumping your knees.

[@vanlifesagas]

Thanks we'll take take in consideration 👍

[@opinionatedartist]

There are some very cool hanging wall organizers that you can hang on your back doors. For your shoes you could use a seat organizer that hangs behind the passenger seat or buy a box/ottoman from amazon that fits between the seats and you can fill with shoes and also use as a table while you drive. But you may need to glue a tray with some kind of border on top of the lid or your stuff will slide off while you drive

[@vanlifesagas]

Yeah, that ottoman is exactly what we need! I think we have to get that done! Thanks for the tip!

[@MiniatureChickenChannel]

😍😍 Just found this channel....You two crack me up....along with the helpful tips, it's refreshing to see you guys always joking around and happy! Obviously a great dynamic together. Your editing game is top notch too. 43K subs.....not for long I don't think...this channel is set to BLOW! 🚀🚀 🤩🤩

[@vanlifesagas]

Awe thanks for all of the love, it means everything to us! Excited to show you what we planed next😊

[@vermontday2]

For shoe storage, get a Youdenova 15 inch storage Ottoman ($22) from Amazon and set it in front of your door. It provides an extra seat that is the perfect height for looking out the door window.

[@vermontday2]

If you want more counter space and a place to eat breakfast while sitting on your new Ottoman, install a 12" drawer slide to the side of your cabinet by the door and two screws under the lip of your counter protruding down. Then take a thin bamboo or plastic cutting board and cut two notches in the cutting board to slide over the screws. While it is only fully supported on the two sides, it is surprisingly sturdy. Home office location?

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly the plan: that ottoman sounds like the best idea for sure.

[@BriBeaton3]

Just an idea I saw on another van, he built space under the floor that was accessible by the sliding door and stored his kayaks underneath his kitchen and bed. That’s my plan for myself for my van

[@vanlifesagas]

Yeah, we thought of that, but Dom being so tall, he wouldn't be able to stand in the van.

[@chelseafelker4782]

@@vanlifesagas you’d be able to have a small cubby area accessible from the back door... on one side. It would raise the heights of cabinets and bed/dining slightly, but not his walking area

[@vanpediem7641]

I put a Lagun table mount on the side of the counter directly behind the drivers seat. The table matches up nicely w/ the passenger swivel seat. I do slide the drivers seat all the way forward. The table top stores between the counter and drivers seat during transit.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yeah! I think we have to get us a Laguna now. You're right!

[@chatteyj]

The lack of a shoe rack was a rookie error. Is there any space above the door to build something? In terms of getting the paddleboards down I think it could be done easily on your own. Simply rotate the board and tilt it down so that one end is touching the floor, release, climb down the ladder and then grab and go. Quite easy.

[@vanlifesagas]

Oufff that paddleboarck trick wouldn't work. Learnt that the hard way on my first attempt alone when Dom wasn't there. Broke the entire nose of the board!!! (Nearly cried there).

[@angrydinosaur99]

I like this couple. Super funny and entertaining. Good vibes!

[@vanlifesagas]

Thanks. No more couple. But thanks!!!

[@ravenwolf79]

I love my Engel top opening fridge. It is both a fridge and freezer. You set the freezer temp to where you want it and the fridge part sets automatically to 20 or so F degrees higher. Absolutely sips power. Pricey but worth it.

[@marionsutcliffe1119]

Add 2 or 3 levels of horizontal rods onto the door-way cabinet - spaced out 2" from the cabinet - then you can slide your shoes toes-down into the space behind the rods.

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh shit! Yes! We had forgotten about that idea. That's exactly what we'll do the back! Thanks !!!

[@jmcd411]

That space between the front seats can be used to have a nice box for your shoes AND a place to put your snacks and drinks 👍🏻

[@vanlifesagas]

That's a great idea! Thanks for sharing with us👍

[@Gimo76]

Driver seat is tough to rotate all the way around. We had a steering wheel that popped up and we still could only go a bit more than half. I had to resort to getting a small table to do my work by passenger chair and I liked it.

[@HH-vc8hn]

you guys are so funny , but at the same time very informative. thank you so much for sharing. Hecksal from las vegas.

[@vanlifesagas]

Thanks! Will be going to Vegas soon.

[@schmeggynz]

You don't need a swivel driver seat. I think you could put a swivel table in that space and when it's not in use you could put the top down. Also that space you could get a basket for your shoes. There's a lot of space behind that drivers seat.

[@vanlifesagas]

Unfortunately, we can't put much behind the driver's seat because that's where we ventilate the refrigerator, but all in for that shoe box between the seats. That's an amazing idea for sure!

[@pooheadlou]

With the shoe thing, maybe having some kind of movable shoe rack. Something that can be tucked away when your driving, but pulled out set up when your camped then tucked away gain.? Of course if you're rebuilding then you can build something under the step. Anyway, it's the best I have at 4 something in the morning. Good luck.

[@vanlifesagas]

hahah 4 something in the morning. How come you're awake !!!

[@pooheadlou]

@@vanlifesagas neighbour likes to turn he's radio or tv up very loudly, in the morning and though out the night most nights at the moment, 😐. Also I'm in australia.

[@callingyouout3954]

There is a good solution for #6 that allows you to both walk between the seats and have a table. I have a 2001 Honda Odyssey. It has a table attached to the left side of the passenger seat that flips down to clear the aisle or flip up for drinks, snacks, phones, etc. It's very handy. When down it adds maybe two extra inches to the passenger seat. When up, it covers the entire aisle.

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh snap. I like it when things fold. That's the thing with an ottoman, scared it'll be in the way. But if it slips, it's magic.

[@neomafoxx7624]

I would adjust the electronics a bit and put an open cubbie there for storage. With accessibility from the top too. I love your channel and look forward to more videos.

[@vanlifesagas]

Couldn't agree more! As much as we love our electric set-up, and takes up way to much space!

[@tamarabaker3665]

for shoes you should put a hanging/door pocket storage type thing on the back of the passenger seat!

[@vanlifesagas]

Yeah, we are thinking of this!

[@koningbolo4700]

7:33 I made my countertops and table tops with a 1/2 inch plywood and some lamelar flooring glued on top of it (trimmed out with some left over oak strips I cut to width) Lamelar flooring is basically a low deform plywood construction with a 4-5mm layer of a nicer wood like bamboe, oak or the like. I would go for bamboe though, bamboe is tough, hard and easy to clean... The tabletops end up being about 32mm thick and not that heavy at all...

[@marionsutcliffe1119]

Add a counter extension that hinges up when not in use as a laptop desk - it will keep the chopped veggies from falling off the R edge. You'll need knee&toe-space when working at the new spot, so the laptop surface has to extend past the base cabinet towards the swivel seat. Not necessarily hinged, but could just be clipped on, and usable elsewhere as well.

[@vanlifesagas]

Your help is tremendous! Those are great ideas Marion!

[@marionsutcliffe1119]

@@vanlifesagas Bienvenus! J'ai vu pas mal de 'vanlife' vidéos.

[@dinahc.brennan9603]

You could raise the floor a few inches and slide the paddle boards in from the garage portion!

[@vanlifesagas]

We thought of it, but then Dom wouldn't be able to stand in the van anymore. He's too tall!

[@Rafael-ke4lk]

You can have a thing hanging off the ceiling behind your drivers seat where it has many sections to put shoes in

[@vanlifesagas]

Yes you could 😀

[@abigailhall5601]

if you do a fixed bed with your nex build and have a swivel seat on the passenger side with a table for office work you could build a platform so your feet dont dangle that is also a place for shoes

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhh that's clever! Abigail, you are hired on the design team. congratulations!